While the large auto alarm companies were nowhere in sight at SEMA, some smaller upstarts were there to pitch innovative products. One of the coolest we saw was from Blackline GPS, which has teamed with radar detector icon Escort for the Entourage system.
It's a location-aware security system that allows you to track your car online or on a mobile phone. It has a GPS receiver and an accelerometer to allow an owner to track a car and also send an alert via text message or email if the car has been moved. It's available in two versions: The Entourage PS portable ($349.95) and Entourage CIS hard-wired model ($399.95). Both require an annual service plan that starts at $120.
Reporting by Doug Newcomb, Senior Editor, Technology
rsholland says:
05:02 AM, 11/ 6/09
I've thought for some time that merging GPS and radar detector technology was a no-brainer. It shouldn't be that difficult to have a red pulsing radar (or red-light camera) alert on your GPS screen. The only question is, do GPS makers want to get into that controversial market.
roadburner says:
07:07 PM, 11/ 6/09
The Escort 9500ix already incorporates GPS technology:
https://www.escortradar.com/store/passport-9500ix.html
rsholland says:
05:43 AM, 11/ 7/09
Roadburner,
The Escort 9500ix does not have a map visual like a Garmin, etc., in which radar is indicated on the screen via a flashing red dot and warning buzzer. That's what I'm talking about.
roadburner says:
07:38 AM, 11/ 7/09
Got it!